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Big Spring International Park: Huntsville's Historic Heart

Discover Huntsville's birthplace and a peaceful retreat at Big Spring International Park, a downtown oasis with international flair.

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Big Spring International Park, nestled in downtown Huntsville, Alabama, surrounds the city's original water source. This vibrant green space offers scenic views, international art pieces, and a tranquil escape for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Big Spring International Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Bring quarters to purchase food from the dispensers to feed the ducks and fish.
  • Check the Huntsville.org website for upcoming events and festivals held in the park.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as the Huntsville Museum of Art and the Von Braun Center.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Huntsville Museum of Art, exit the museum and walk southwest along Church Street SW. Big Spring International Park will be on your right, directly across the street from the museum's parking lot. The walk is short and straightforward.

  • Public Transport

    Huntsville's Orbit public transit system has several routes that stop near Big Spring International Park. Check the Huntsville Transit website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop on Church Street SW, the park is a short walk away.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available in the lots surrounding Big Spring International Park, though it can be limited. There is a parking garage at 300 Church Street SW, with hourly rates. During events like Panoply, the city opens additional parking garages and lots near the park. Be sure to check signs for parking fees and restrictions.

Unlock the Best of Big Spring International Park

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Discover more about Big Spring International Park

Big Spring International Park, often called Big Spring Park, marks the birthplace of Huntsville, Alabama. In 1805, John Hunt, a Revolutionary War veteran, chose the site for a new community thanks to the reliable spring. The park has evolved over two centuries, serving as the city's water source until the late 1960s. The park features a beautiful lagoon, a red Japanese bridge, and gifts from other countries, including a German sundial and a park bench from the United Kingdom. These international touches reflect Huntsville's global connections. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along paved walkways, feed the ducks and koi fish, or simply relax and take in the scenery. The Huntsville Museum of Art and the Von Braun Center are nearby, making it easy to combine a park visit with other cultural attractions. The park hosts various events throughout the year, including the Panoply Arts Festival in April and Concerts in the Park during the summer. During the holiday season, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with the Tinsel Trail, a display of decorated trees. Big Spring International Park offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of Huntsville.

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